Brendan Farhi
Graduate Student, Glastad Lab
You work in a laboratory. What are you currently researching?
I currently work in the lab of Karl Glastad. Our lab leverages multi-omics and molecular approaches in ants to understand fundamental aspects of molecular and cellular biology. I am currently working on several side projects to keep benchwork fun, which include attempting to generate the first immortal ant cells and testing differences in cellular stress responses between long and short lived ants. My main research project includes looking at how functional expansion of transcription factors may influence the metabolism of ants to ultimately increase lifespan.
What advice would you give to prospective students looking to study in our department?
An hour of planning is worth a few hours of wingin’ it. Maintaining excitement in and gratitude in your work is key to maintaining intellectual involvement and independence.
What’s the most important thing that you’ve learned working here and/or studying biology?
Academic departments are a community and participating in events, friendships, and collaborations are highly important to your interpersonal and professional fulfillment.
How do you think our biology department stands out in comparison to other universities?
Graduate students, to a greater degree, are involved in their own professional development and are involved in department events. For example graduate students are encouraged to participate in the ‘chalk talk’ part of faculty candidate interviews which allows for both student involvement in department direction and provides a glimpse of what students may be challenged with in the future.
How do you unwind when you’re not in the lab?
I am very much a hobbyist. Recently I have been pickling many things with different spice mixes and keeping them in the office to share. If Spicy & Sour Okra sounds appealing, you can stop by the lab for some pickled veggies.